VVS Diamond Price: A Complete Buying Guide

Understanding the prices of VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds is crucial for buyers and investors. Known for their exceptional clarity, VVS diamonds command high value and often come at a premium. This article explores how factors like size, clarity, and cut influence VVS diamond costs, providing insights for informed purchasing decisions.

VVS stands for Very Very Slightly Included. It's a measure of diamond clarity on the GIA clarity scale, which assesses the visual appearance of a diamond and the presence of flaws or blemishes. A VVS grade indicates that the diamond has very small inclusions, which are difficult to notice even under 10x magnification.

When buying VVS diamonds, be aware that there are two levels: VVS1 and VVS2. VVS1 diamonds are less included than VVS2 diamonds and usually cost more. Their inclusions are not visible under 10x magnification.

VVS2 inclusions are barely visible under 10x magnification but are still challenging to find. They may be slightly more prominent or darker than those in VVS1 diamonds, but the difference is negligible.

Both VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds are eye-clean, meaning you won't see any blemishes with the naked eye. Everything else being equal, VVS1 diamonds tend to cost about 10% more than VVS2 diamonds.

Clarity is a crucial factor in assessing a diamond's overall quality. 

It refers to the presence of internal and external features (blemishes and inclusions) within the gemstone. These features can affect a diamond's brilliance, transparency, and overall visual appeal.

When comparing VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) and VS (Very Slightly Included) diamonds, several important differences emerge. VVS diamonds, including VVS1 and VVS2, have minimal inclusions that are nearly invisible, even under 10× magnification, making them exceptionally clear and highly valued.

This clarity comes at a premium, with VVS diamonds often being up to 40% more expensive than VS diamonds. For example, a 1.00 ct D color VVS1 diamond tennis chain can be significantly pricier than a comparable VS1 diamond chain of the same weight and color. 

On the other hand, VS diamonds, which include VS1 and VS2, have slightly more visible inclusions but are still difficult to detect without magnification, maintaining an eye-clean appearance. They offer a balance between quality and affordability; a 1.00 ct G-H color VVS1 diamond might cost 15%-20% more than a similar VS1 or VS2 diamond.

Ultimately, VVS diamonds are ideal for those who prioritize top-tier clarity and can afford the higher cost, while VS diamonds provide excellent value without compromising on visual beauty, making both suitable for fine jewelry.

The size of a diamond, measured in carats, directly influences its price. Larger diamonds are rarer and more expensive, reflecting their greater desirability and market value. However, size alone doesn't determine a diamond's overall quality; other factors like cut, color, and clarity are equally important in determining its value and appearance.

The cut of a diamond is critical for its brilliance and beauty. Well-cut diamonds reflect light effectively, maximizing sparkle and enhancing their visual appeal. Diamonds with excellent or ideal cuts are highly valued for their superior craftsmanship and attractiveness.

The color of a diamond impacts its appearance and value. Diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (noticeable color). Colorless diamonds (D-F) are more valuable due to their rarity and purity, commanding higher prices than diamonds with visible color (G-Z). Balancing color grade with budget ensures finding a diamond that meets both aesthetic preferences and financial considerations.

Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or imperfections in a diamond. VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds, such as VVS1 and VVS2, have minimal imperfections that are difficult to detect even under magnification. VVS diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye, contributing to their premium pricing within the diamond market.

Certification from reputable grading laboratories like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS) significantly impacts a diamond's price. These certifications provide an objective assessment of a diamond's quality, instilling confidence in buyers and influencing market value. Diamonds with certifications from well-respected labs often command higher prices.

Diamond prices are subject to market dynamics, including supply and demand fluctuations. Economic conditions, cultural preferences, and fashion trends can all impact the desirability and pricing of certain diamond qualities. For instance, increased demand for specific shapes, sizes, or colors can drive up prices for those particular attributes.

The shape of a diamond plays a crucial role in its pricing. The classic round brilliant cut remains popular and often commands premium prices due to its symmetry and light performance. Fancy shapes like princess, emerald, or oval cuts may offer unique aesthetics at potentially lower price points. The choice of shape can significantly impact the overall cost of a VVS diamond.

The price of a VVS diamond depends on several factors, including cut quality, color, shape, and carat weight. Here are some general price ranges for VVS diamonds per carat:

• Average Price for 1 Carat VVS1 Round Diamond: A 1 carat VVS1 round diamond with H-I color typically costs approximately $5,500.

• Average Cost for 1 Carat VVS2 Round Diamond: A 1 carat VVS2 round diamond with I color is usually priced around $5,310.

VVS diamonds are more expensive than VS (Very Slightly Included) diamonds and significantly pricier than SI (Slightly Included) diamonds. On average, VVS diamonds can be up to 30% more costly than SI diamonds. The price difference between VVS1 and VVS2 diamond chains typically ranges from $100 to $800, assuming all other diamond specifications are similar.

When deciding between VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds, consider the following:

• Rarity and Cost: VVS1 diamonds are rarer and usually cost more than VVS2 diamonds.

• Visibility of Inclusions: VVS1 diamonds have no visible inclusions under 10x magnification, while VVS2 diamonds may have tiny inclusions that are barely noticeable under the same magnification.

VVS diamond prices can vary significantly based on regional market conditions and demand. Factors such as local preferences, economic stability, and cultural influences impact pricing.

For example, VVS diamonds may be priced differently in New York, Mumbai, or Tokyo due to varying market dynamics. These regional differences reflect the unique characteristics of each market, including consumer preferences, economic conditions, and local supply chains.

Prioritize clarity within your budget. Consider a slightly smaller carat weight for better clarity. An eye-clean VVS diamond can be more impressive than a larger, included stone. This trade-off often results in a more visually appealing diamond.

Cut quality enhances a diamond's brilliance. Invest in a well-cut diamond even if it means compromising slightly on clarity. A beautifully cut VVS diamond will outshine a poorly cut one, regardless of its clarity grade.

Balance clarity and color. A higher color grade (e.g., G-H) complements VVS clarity. Focus on the overall visual appeal rather than chasing perfection in any single category. This approach allows you to achieve a harmonious balance between all aspects of the diamond.

Diamond certification is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it provides quality assurance by verifying the diamond's 4Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight—ensuring you understand its true value.

Secondly, certification brings transparency and trust to the buying process, as it offers an unbiased, independent evaluation that builds confidence between the buyer and seller.

Additionally, certified diamonds make it easier to compare different stones, thanks to their adherence to a standardized grading system. This comparability is crucial when evaluating options.

Furthermore, certified diamonds often have a higher resale value and are typically required for insurance purposes, safeguarding your investment. Lastly, certification supports ethical sourcing by helping to verify that the diamond was obtained responsibly, thus promoting ethical practices within the industry.

Begin by checking who graded the diamond (e.g., GIA, IGI) and noting the report number for future reference. This information validates the report's authenticity.

Understand the diamond's outline (shape) and facet arrangement (cutting style). This information helps you visualize the diamond's appearance and light performance.

When evaluating a diamond, certification provides crucial insights. It details the Four Cs: Carat Weight, which tells you how much the diamond weighs; Color Grade, ranging from colorless (D) to light yellow or brown (Z); Clarity Grade, which assesses inclusions and blemishes visible under 10x magnification; and Cut Grade for round diamonds, indicating the sparkle, from Excellent to Poor.

Additionally, the certification includes other important details like polish, symmetry, fluorescence, and any treatments the diamond has undergone. Look for unique identifiers such as inscriptions on the girdle. The report also features diagrams showing the diamond's proportions and clarity characteristics, offering a clear view of its overall quality.

Security features like holograms and micro print lines ensure the authenticity of the certification. These elements collectively help you make a confident and informed purchase decision.

Know the market prices for VVS diamonds before you shop. This knowledge helps you recognize a good deal and negotiate better.

When negotiating, always be respectful. Ask if there's any flexibility in the price. Be prepared to walk away if the price is too high.

Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, like Black Friday or Valentine's Day. You might find better deals during these times.

VVS diamonds are highly prized for their near-perfect clarity and exceptional beauty. Their prices are influenced by a combination of factors, including rarity, size, color, and cut quality.

As you navigate the VVS diamond market, remember to align your choice with your personal preferences and budget. Prioritize clarity but also consider the balance between all the Four Cs to find the best value.

Always ensure that your diamond is certified by a reputable source, as this guarantees the authenticity and quality of your investment. By being well-informed and thoughtful in your decision-making, you can confidently select a VVS diamond that perfectly matches your desires and expectations.